In a landmark verdict, a Kolkata court on Saturday convicted Sanjay Roy, the prime accused in the brutal rape and murder of a junior doctor at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital. The judgment was delivered by Additional District and Sessions Judge Anirban Das after an in-camera trial lasting 57 days.
The case involved the heinous crime against a 31-year-old resident doctor, whose lifeless body was discovered in the college seminar hall on August 9, 2024. An autopsy confirmed that she was raped and murdered, sparking widespread protests across the country.
“Justice Will Prevail”: Court’s Remarks
Following the verdict, Sanjay Roy, a civic volunteer with the Kolkata Police, claimed that he was being framed. In response, the Court assured him, saying, “The Court will hear you before deciding the punishment, but justice will prevail.”
The sentencing hearing is scheduled for Monday, January 20, with the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) pushing for the death penalty.
Key Developments in the Case
- Swift Arrests: Sanjay Roy was apprehended on August 10, a day after the crime.
- CBI Investigation: The case was transferred to the CBI following a Calcutta High Court order, with the agency filing charges of rape and murder.
- Arrests of Senior Officials: Former RG Kar principal Dr. Sandeep Ghosh and police officer Abhijeet Mondal were also arrested for allegedly attempting to destroy evidence. Both were granted default bail due to delays in filing the chargesheet.
- Nationwide Protests: The incident led to massive strikes and demands for enhanced safety measures for medical professionals.
Supreme Court’s Intervention
The Supreme Court initiated a suo motu case addressing the broader issue of workplace safety for medical professionals. Observing the vulnerabilities faced by healthcare workers, the apex court directed the formation of a National Task Force (NTF) to recommend measures against gender-based violence in the workplace.
The NTF’s report, submitted in November 2024, is currently under review by various State governments.
Awaiting Justice
The RG Kar case has highlighted systemic lapses in ensuring the safety of medical professionals. The upcoming sentencing will be closely watched as the Court weighs the demand for capital punishment against the backdrop of public outrage and a demand for justice.
